The purpose of a writer is to be read, and the criticism which would destroy the power of pleasing must be blown aside

Music is the only sensual pleasure without vice.

A horse that can count to ten is a remarkable horse, not a remarkable mathematician.

Bashfulness may sometimes exclude pleasure, but seldom opens any avenue to sorrow or remorse.

Gratitude is a fruit of great cultivation; you do not find it among gross people.

There are three distinct kind of judges upon all new authors or productions; the first are those who know no rules, but pronounce entirely from their natural taste and feelings; the second are those who know and judge by rules; and the third are those who know, but are above the rules. These last are those you should wish to satisfy. Next to them rate the natural judges; but ever despise those opinions that are formed by the rules.

I do not care to speak ill of a man behind his back, but I believe he is an attorney.